What were the major historical causes for the successive waves of Essay

What were the major historical causes for the successive waves of Greek colonization In what ways did Greek colonies impact Greek political institutions and cultural values - Essay Example Moreover, years of military expertise and familiarity with defending the Greek Speaking world from a host of foreign threats came to integrate deeply within an understanding of Greece and its role throughout the region. As can be seen from the situation that is been described, there was not merely one or two factors that encourage to Greece to colonize and otherwise invade the surrounding regions. Instead, a litany of factors coalesced and encouraged the nascent state, as a direct result of its exposure, trade, and subsequent military conquest, that colonization would be an effective means through which a greater level of wealth and regional influence could be exhibited. After the conquest of the first wave of Greek colonization, it became clear that a level of administrative authority, unlike what existed within the Greek states, must be exerted as a means of ensuring that a level of separatism and possible/potential rebellion was not exhibited. Due to the fact that the individuals who were colonized were inherently â€Å"non-Greek† the colonies could not be expected to be administered willingly in the same way that free men within the Greek city states existed. As such, a new form of administration and one that promoted a level of Greek culture, identification, and governance was established within these newly conquered realms. Although it was not a primary interest of the Greek colonizers to instill a level of cultural respect, the institutions and governance structure that was established effectively created a level of Greek culture and respect for it within the institutions that have thus far been described. As with any empire throughout the course of history, the growth and diversity of colonies created a situation in which Greece was forced to expend a great deal of energy, time, and money as a means of administering and ensuring that these colonies continue